Profile

Taste & Aroma

Score:93

Medium to full red-purple; medium-bodied, and quite elegant, with gently savoury/earthy edges to the spicy/black fruits.

James Halliday

Producer

Barossa Valley based Hentley Farm Wines was founded by Keith and Alison Hentschke who acquired the land and property in the 1990s. The pair researched the land to find the best soils upon which to plant their vines and it wasn’t until 2002 that any wines were released from Hentley Farm as the owners were perfecting the vineyards. Soon after successfully launching their wines, Keith and Alison acquired the neighboring vineyard Clos Otto Block in 2004 which forms the basis for the famous Clos OttoShiraz.

Region

Situated in South Australia, 60 kilometres northwest of Adelaide, lies the Barossa Valley which has been producing wine since 1842 and these days is recognised as Australia’s quintessential wine region. The hot climate mixed with the ironstone and sandstone soil in the valley, makes excellent growing conditions for grapes and in particular, Shiraz (or Syrah) which classically is full bodied with earthy and spicy notes. Over the last 15 years there has also been an increased interest in the other red Rhone varietals Grenache and Mourvedre. The non-irrigated old vineyards on the cooler west side of the valley are the most treasured and provide fruit for Australia’s most famous wine, Penfolds Grange among many other top-quality bottlings.

Glassware

Zalto Denk-Art Universal Glass

For full-bodied to powerful wines, which are expressive but also show minerality and smooth character. Accentuates complexity and finesse.

Ideal for: All types of Wine. Great as a small Red Wine Glass or an all round White Wine Glass. Adequate for Rosé too. Especially good for: Chardonnay, Chianti, Riesling and ‘Smaragd’ – wines from the Wachau.